Wenzhou-Kean University Student Research Day 2024 | Inspiring the Next Generation of Scholars
The vibrant April welcomed the 9th Annual Student Research Day at Wenzhou-Kean University (WKU), where over 660 students showcased nearly 500 research projects, marking a record-high participation. The event ignited students’ enthusiasm for innovation and discovery, demonstrating the growing strength of WKU’s emerging research talent.
A delegation from Kean University USA, led by President Dr. Lamont Repollet, joined this year’s celebration, highlighting the close academic collaboration between the two campuses.
Fostering a Culture of Research and Innovation
At the opening ceremony, Dr. Eric Yang, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, emphasized that WKU has long adhered to the philosophy of integrating education with research and cultivating a diverse academic environment that promotes both teaching and scholarly inquiry.
“Through research practice, we aim to develop students’ sense of social responsibility, innovative spirit, analytical thinking, and lifelong learning ability,” said Dr. Eric Yang.
Student Research Day provides a platform for students to present their research achievements across multiple disciplines — including biology, computer science, education, economics, psychology, and mathematics — reflecting WKU’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning and innovation.
Inspiring Student Voices and Cross-University Collaboration
Student representative Zhang Ying shared her personal journey of growth in research at WKU. Meanwhile, Shark Tank competition winners Shen Yixin and Chen Ke presented their award-winning business proposal, which received a USD 10,000 grant from Kean University to further advance their sustainable development project.
In addition to WKU students, 15 teams from Wenzhou Medical University’s School of Bioengineering and Wenzhou University’s School of Education participated in poster sessions and presentations, creating a collaborative academic exchange platform among the three universities.
Keynote Insights and Faculty Inspiration
The event featured a keynote lecture by Professor Ye Fangfu, Deputy Director of the Wenzhou Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, titled “Cell Dynamics and Active Matter—When Physics Meets Biology.” His talk showcased the fascinating intersection of physics and biology, inspiring both students and faculty alike.
Dr. Alex English, representing WKU faculty, also shared his reflections on the meaning of research, encouraging students to stay resilient and courageous in their academic pursuits.
Empowering Student-Faculty Collaboration
Since 2015, WKU has implemented the Student Partnering with Faculty Research Program, encouraging collaborative research between students and professors. To date, the program has supported 283 joint projects with a total funding of approximately RMB 7 million.
From just 72 participants in 2016 to nearly 600 in 2024, WKU’s Student Research Day has evolved into a major academic event that embodies the university’s mission — to nurture critical thinkers, innovators, and global citizens through research-driven education.
